Mariano Rivera, Yankees great, hints at retirement at end of season

Star-Ledger FileMariano Rivera dropped hints that this season could be his last.

TAMPA, Fla. — Mariano Rivera didn't come out and say it. But the greatest closer of all time left plenty of hints today that this will be his final season.

The Yankees great, 42, said that several weeks ago he made his decision. For now, it is a decision he will keep to himself, one that can't be changed despite what happens this year.

“This one is different,” Rivera said about his decision. “This is it.”

As he did last season, Rivera said it was difficult to leave his family behind for camp. But Rivera, the all-time saves leader, refused to make any definitive comments. His two-year contract is up at the season's end.